Emirates Stadium will once again be the stage for drama when Arsenal host Crystal Palace in the 34th week of the 2024/2025 Premier League. The match scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025 could be more than just a London duel. This is a battle between fading hope and approaching reality.
Arsenal know they are no longer the favorites to win. However, as long as that opportunity is not mathematically completely closed, they still have a mission to complete: to delay Liverpool’s party, even if only for a moment.
The 4-0 victory over Ipswich Town last weekend seemed to inject new energy. The Gunners are still alive, still running, and still fighting.
Arsenal appeared carefree when they silenced Ipswich, scoring four goals without reply with complete dominance. Leandro Trossard scored two goals, Gabriel Martinelli scored his 50th goal, and Ethan Nwaneri added to the lead.
One crucial moment occurred when Leif Davis was sent off after a hard tackle on Bukayo Saka. Despite their star winger being withdrawn early, Arsenal maintained control of the game.
Now, with 11 games unbeaten in all competitions, Mikel Arteta’s men are looking at Palace with great confidence. However, they know that one wrong move could close all paths to the title.
Palace do not come as a team to cheer for. Under Oliver Glasner, they remain competitive even though they are no longer hunting for a European ticket.
After two heavy defeats to City and Newcastle, a draw against Bournemouth gave them new breath. Moreover, they had to play with 10 men after Chris Richards was sent off.
However, their focus is now starting to be divided. The FA Cup semi-final against Aston Villa awaits at Wembley. As a result, the match at the Emirates could be just a formality with the potential for quiet rotation.
Arteta is expected to make selective rotations to maintain the fitness of the team before the big duel against PSG in the Champions League. Young names such as Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly could be a surprise again.
Senior players such as Thomas Partey and Jurrien Timber also have the opportunity to play from the start. Riccardo Calafiori’s absence is still a note even though his condition is starting to improve.
Meanwhile, Palace lost Chris Richards due to suspension. Glasner may have to rely on Nathaniel Clyne in the back sector or play Jefferson Lerma deeper.
With a tight schedule, maintaining intensity is Arsenal’s biggest challenge. However, their current performance shows that they are used to fighting under pressure.
Palace do have a good record in London derbies this season, but Arsenal have beaten them twice. Added to the bluntness of the front line and the focus that is starting to be disturbed, Palace’s chances in this match are slim.
Although this victory does not immediately bring Arsenal back into the title race, three points can extend hope. Delaying Liverpool’s party, even if only for a day, is their last form of resistance.
